Los Angeles wildfires prompt investigation into emergency water supply failures

California Governor Gavin Newsom on Friday ordered an independent investigation into water shortages experienced during the ongoing wildfires that continue to devastate Los Angeles County.

“We need answers to ensure this does not happen again and we have every resource available to fight these catastrophic fires,” Newsom stated on X, formerly Twitter.

The governor directed state water and firefighting agencies to prepare a detailed report identifying the causes of water source and pressure losses in municipal systems during the crisis. The report is expected to include recommendations for preventing similar disruptions in the future.

Additionally, Newsom called on the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, along with city officials, to conduct a comprehensive review of emergency water supply preparedness and response protocols. This review will document the reasons behind the water shortages and assess the city’s ability to respond to large-scale emergencies.

Firefighters are battling six active wildfires across Los Angeles County, which have scorched over 36,000 acres as of Friday, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. At least 11 people have died, and more than 12,000 structures have been destroyed.

The largest blaze, the Palisade Fire, has consumed 21,317 acres in and around Pacific Palisades, an affluent coastal neighborhood. The fire is only 8% contained. Meanwhile, the Eaton Fire, burning in the foothills near Altadena, has torched 14,117 acres and remains just 3% contained.

Strong winds have exacerbated conditions, propelling burning embers and hampering containment efforts. Four additional fires—identified as the Hurst, Lidia, Archer, and Kenneth fires—are also spreading across the region.

Over 100,000 residents remain under evacuation orders as emergency crews work tirelessly to contain the infernos and provide relief to affected communities.